Spend quality time, connect with nature and enjoy some magical family moments on a whale-watching and swimming tour. Photos: Supplied.
There is something absolutely remarkable about connecting with magnificent marine mammals out at sea, in their natural habitat. Let’s embark on a journey with a whale-watching cruise that will create forever memories for the whole family.
Take the opportunity to connect with nature through whale-watching, swim and walk packages from Bannisters by the Sea Mollymook, and Capella Sydney.
Whale migration season is underway and Bannisters by the Sea is the perfect location to catch a glimpse of the whales as they make their journey along the coast. Bannisters has partnered with ecotourism leaders Woebegone Freedive and Djiriba Waagura to offer these packages.
During September and October, you can experience the magic, up close and as personal as it gets. Spend time in Mollymook and enjoy a whale-watching and swimming tour. Bannisters’ whale swim package offers the chance to explore the underwater world of the Jervis Bay Marine Park via a small boat to swim alongside majestic humpback whales, playful fur seals and common dolphins.
The package includes a two-night stay at the luxurious Bannisters by the Sea, a six-hour whale expedition led by Woebegone and dining at award-winning chef Rick Stein’s seafood restaurant.
Bannisters by the Sea Mollymook is the perfect location for catching a glimpse of the whales as they make their migratory journey along the coast.
Embark on this exciting whale swim expedition with local sustainable tour operator Woebegone Freedive. Its mission is to introduce you to the captivating world of freediving and snorkelling through expert instruction using meditation and breathing techniques. The experienced local instructors provide personalised and friendly tours to help you master the basics of exploring the underwater world.
The Woebegone team recognises the “interconnectedness of all things, realising that a healthy ocean will ensure our survival as a species. We take conservation seriously and try our hardest to minimise our environmental impact. Environment comes before profit.”
The meaning of the other partner’s name – Djiriba Waagura – is ‘’Two Crows’’ in Dhurga language of the Yuin nation. The CEO and co-founder of Djiriba Waagura, Matthew Simms, says: “Our vision is to connect all Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to our Aboriginal culture. We are about building positive relationships and we welcome everybody to inquire.”
A cultural walk is also offered as an additional option so adventure seekers can walk on Country with Matthew as he shares the significance of whales in the area to his people and ancestors. The group aims to “empower our youth and the community through the culture and wellbeing aspects” of its program.
For luxury coastal escapes, appreciate the panoramic ocean views and luxury of By the Sea, which is within a five-minute walk of Mollymook Beach. Bannisters features a solar-heated swimming pool, a day spa and a restaurant with Rick Stein cuisine that combines a relaxed ambience, sprawling ocean views and fresh and locally sourced seafood to create a memorable dining experience.
Luxury accommodation awaits for those who stay at Capella Sydney, a heritage-listed icon.
The second package is designed for those seeking a unique blend of luxury accommodation and adventure. Get on board for an unforgettable whale-watching cruise that will create forever memories for the whole family with Whale Watching Sydney, and the luxury of Capella Sydney.
Witness whales in their natural habitat during the great migration where more than 40,000 whales pass the NSW coastline, before indulging in the ultimate comfort and luxury stay at Capella Sydney. This hotel is a story-filled canvas reimagined.
Escape to a destination where history and contemporary meet in the historical heart of Sydney. Originally built as the Department of Education premises in 1912 and reawakened as Capella Hotels’ first Australian outpost, this is a new benchmark in luxury hospitality, only footsteps from Sydney’s most iconic landmarks.
Balancing historied architectural features with a contemporary design aesthetic, wrapped in Capella’s attractive heritage-listed walls, 192 guest rooms and suites have been sensitively restored and transformed to offer an urban oasis that exudes timeless luxury with meticulously curated artworks, furnishings and the latest in-room technology.
Capella Sydney’s Family Moments whale-watching package includes overnight accommodation at Capella Sydney, full daily breakfast at Brasserie 1930 and a two-hour whale-watching journey from Circular Quay, providing prime views of humpback and southern right whales as they migrate along the NSW coastline.
Capella Sydney’s culturist team will organise and book the cruise for you. Other inclusions are an exclusive Capella ”Cappy” The Whale soft toy (one per child), exclusive guest-only access to The Living Room and access to the Little Stars program for children.
Bookings are available until Thursday, 31 October, 2024.
